President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday inaugurated Northern Luzon’s first “Tourist Rest Area” (TRA) in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, aiming to boost tourism in the Ilocos Region.
The President praised the TRA project as an example of effective collaboration between the government and private sector, emphasizing the contributions of the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), and local government units (LGUs).
“We do not see the success of this tourist area, the first one, without the cooperation of the different sectors,” Mr. Marcos said.
Launched in October 2022, the TRA serves tourists visiting Pagudpud and nearby areas, highlighting Filipino artistry and supporting local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Eight other TRAs have been completed across the country, with locations including Roxas, Palawan; Medellin, Cebu; Carmen, Cebu; Carcar, Cebu; Moalboal, Cebu; Dauis, Bohol; Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon; and Island Garden City of Samal, Davao Del Norte. The Baguio City site is expected to be finished this month.
Additionally, 22 more TRAs have been identified nationwide, covering regions such as Bulacan, Sultan Kudarat, Negros Occidental, Camarines Sur, Surigao del Norte, and more.
Marcos expressed gratitude and said the Ilocos Region developments would serve as a “springboard” for further success in the Philippine tourism industry.
